Fed Up: Getting Compensated For Food Poisoning

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A nice night out to a local restaurant could turn into a very bad experience. The potential to contract a food-borne illness, such as salmonella, is ever present. This illness is the second most common food-borne illness affecting those in the United States, and it is spread by consuming contaminated food or water. Read on for a better understanding of salmonella poisoning and how to get compensated.

Salmonella Poisoning

Almost no food is off-limits for the bacteria that causes salmonella, but often it is found in poultry, meat, and eggs. Fruits and vegetables can also contain this bacteria, however. Symptoms usually begin soon after ingesting the contaminated food, but it can take up to 12 to 72 hours to begin to feel the effects. Once the affliction begins, you can expect to be sick for several days. Common symptoms are:

What To Do

People who are in a more vulnerable state of health, such as those who are elderly, pregnant, or very young, as well as those who have a medical condition or take medication that lowers their immune response, are at the highest level of risk. Even if you do not fall into one of those categories, however, you may want to see your doctor and have blood and stool samples taken. Only with lab tests can you identify, for certain, the pathogen causing your distress. Additionally, if you later decide to take action against the food provider, such as a restaurant, the lab tests will play a key role in your case. Additionally, take the following action:

1. Save any food you may have on hand, such as take-out containers. Testing can be carried out on those samples.

2. Keep your hands on any restaurant bills or receipts.

3. Contact your local health department to ensure that an investigation is began. If it made you sick, it likely made others sick as well.

4. Follow your doctors orders, and do not attempt to self-medicate for the symptoms of salmonella poisoning.

5. Make contact with others who ate with you.

6. Drink plenty of fluids, and avoid caffeinated products and dairy foods.

You should know that you may be entitled to compensation for your food-borne illness, whether it's salmonella or any other. You may be able to get your medical bills taken care of, your lost wages from missing work as well as pain and suffering. Speak to a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to preserve your rights to compensation.